water

wa-ter · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    [chemistry]A colorless, transparent, odorless liquid that forms the seas, lakes, rivers, and rain, and is the basis of the fluids of living organisms.

  2. 2.

    A body of water such as a sea, lake, or river.

  3. 3.

    The surface of a body of water.

  4. 4.

    [plural]A particular stretch or area of sea or ocean.

Forms

plural: waters

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    in hot water — In trouble or difficulty.
  • •
    water under the bridge — Past events that are no longer important.
  • •
    hold water — (of an argument) Be logical and consistent.
  • •
    test the waters — Cautiously try something new.
  • •
    like water off a duck's back — Having no effect.
  • •
    blood is thicker than water — Family relationships are stronger than others.

Related words

See also: ice, liquid, ocean, rain, steam
Synonyms: H2O, aqua

Etymology

From Old English wæter, from Proto-Germanic watōr, from Proto-Indo-European wódr̥ ("water"). Cognate with German Wasser, Dutch water, and Greek húdōr.